Has anyone had this come on really early (I have the 3.6L)? Mine has come on at 6,000 KM (3,700 miles). Going to the dealer on Saturday but just want to check if anyone has experienced this.

Not sure if this is because of an error, problem with the engine using too much oil, or me erring in trying to follow proper break-in procedure. I don't think I drive particularly carelessly, so I'm doubting this is normal.

Lingohocken

03-14-2012 06:47 PM

Re: Change oil light early

In principle the oil change light comes on based on a mix of accumulated mileage and unspecified wear characteristics that supposedly can make it a good idea to change oil earlier than usual.

I'm from Missouri on this. Convincingly explain how and how well this works, or else I'll stick with regular change intervals. Insofar as I know, nobody has yet detailed how this virtual "thinking" works, much less how accurate or useful it is in practice.

So while my mind remains open to changing oil when the idiot light comes on, for now we're sticking to changing every 5k miles because we usually keep our vehicles for 150-200k miles and don't want unnecessary wear. But for most folks, who trade in at under 100k miles, the recommended 8k mile interval is probably just fine.

Or if you trust the little light, go with that.

sined240

03-15-2012 06:38 AM

Re: Change oil light early

Perfectly normal, the first light comes on around the 3000-4000 mile mark, then after that it is 8000 mile intervals on average. You just don't see that on most people here on the forums because they change it at like 1000 miles due to their preferences...

Skier95746

03-15-2012 12:51 PM

Re: Change oil light early

Same for me - light came on for the first time at 3,100 miles. Light has just come on again at 7,500 miles. Still more frequent that I was expecting / think is necessary, but going in the right direction...

canadaguy

03-15-2012 01:31 PM

Re: Change oil light early

Thanks all. Phoned the dealer today who claims that there is a separate oil change maintenance schedule (don't have my manual with me at work so can't verify it). My previous two cars were demos, so I guess I never would have noticed that there is an "early" oil change needed for those of us who don't change it every 1000 miles.